In this well-played game Akobian beats a top seed, taking the lead in the tournament for the first time.

1. d4 f5 2. Nc3 Nf6 3. Bg5 d5 4. Bxf6 exf6

The kingside pawn structure is fixed, and Black’s two bishops are not a trump. White’s plan is to keep the position closed by putting his pawns on dark squares, whereas Black needs to strive for an open game.

5. e3 Be6 6. Qf3 Nc6?!

Black’s position is better coordinated after ... c7-c6 and ... Nd7.

7. Bb5 Qd6 8. Nge2 0-0-0?!

Black underestimates White’s attacking chances. It’s better to keep the king in the center and wait until White castles first.

9. a3!

White prepares b2-b4 with a powerful initiative versus the Black king, while it’s unclear where Black can find counterplay as both bishops are locked in.

9. ... Kb8 10. Na4

Heading to c5.

10. ... Ne7 11. Nc5 Bc8 12. g3 h5 13. h4 g6 14. b4

White is taking over the initiative, while Black can only passively wait. Notice how both of Black’s bishops are restricted.

14. ... Bh6 15. c3

Akobian is in no rush, he is now getting ready to storm with the a-pawn.

15. ... Ka8 16. a4 a6 17. Bd3 Rhe8 18. Kd2

The king feels safe in the center, as Black has no way of opening up the position.